The 50 Best Honeymoon Spots

St. Lucia

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Why Go: This Caribbean isle has a lush landscape that includes the twin Pitons and plenty of rain forest to explore. What to Do: Hike to one of the island's many waterfalls, then cool off together in the natural pools at the bottom. Where to Stay: Jade Mountain has open-air rooms with their own infinity swim-up pools and views of the sea, JadeMountain.com.

Los Cabos, Mexico

Why Go: Mexico's sexiest resort area has many of the country's hottest places to stay, and the service is top-notch.What to Do: Lounge by the pool all day -- order lunch, read a book and toast your newlywed status with margaritas.Where to Stay: Esperanza, an Auberge Resort, is seductive -- private balconies and beach barbecues, EsperanzaResort.com.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

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Why Go: No town parties quite like Rio. Sip caipirinha cocktails and don one of your teeniest bikinis (you'll still feel overdressed!).What to Do: Heed the call of the samba beat, and do as the locals do -- dance! Trust us: Those sexy moves will set the mood for when you're back in your hotel room.Where to Stay: Hotel Fasano Rio de Janeiro is on Ipanema beach (where all the beautiful people hang out) and offers a sleek design that's as cool as Rio itself, Fasano.com.br.

Maui, Hawaii

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Why Go: Hawaii offers exotic allure -- without the hassle of leaving the US.What to Do: Take a hula class and your spouse will have his eyes locked on your hips. Where to Stay: The Inn at Mama's has low rates, a delicious restaurant and a quiet beach, MamasFishHouse.com.

Napa Valley, California

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Why Go: In summer, the rolling hills are covered with rows of grapevines. In the fall, greens turn shades of yellow and orange.What to Do: Hire a driver for the day so neither of you has to skip the wine tasting at Beringer Vineyards and Cakebread Cellars. Where to Stay: Auberge du Soleil, with a vineyard-side pool and wine-tasting dinners, is the place to be, AubergeduSoleil.com.

Barcelona, Spain

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Why Go: Spain's stunning port town is loaded with culture (be sure to check out La Sagrada Família and the Picasso Museum), delicious tapas and bubbling nightlife.What to Do: Explore Gaudí's Park Güell, then stroll back to the hotel for a siesta.Where to Stay: Check out Hotel Arts. It's a Ritz-Carlton, but there's nothing "chain-ish" about the modern rooms, RitzCarlton.com.

Tuscany, Italy

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Why Go: From art and history to the smell of fresh pasta, Tuscany has a magic all its own.What to Do: Rent a car and explore the winemaking hillside towns.Where to Stay: Located in a formal papal villa just outside Siena, Relais La Suvera is fit for a principe and principessa, LaSuvera.it.

Kyoto, Japan

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Why Go: Kyoto feels far from modern Tokyo thanks to its ancient palaces and shrines. What to Do: Enjoy the Zen gardens and Buddhist temples, especially Kinkakuji.Where to Stay: Book a room at Kinmata, which has a lantern-lit garden and delicious kaiseki meals, KinMata.com.

Santorini, Greece

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Why Go: This Greek isle sees plenty of cruise ships, but by late afternoon it's just you, the deep-blue sea and the pale-blue sky (okay, and a tasty bottle of local wine too).What to Do: Explore Akrotiri, a prehistoric settlement that was preserved under volcanic lava.Where to Stay: Watch the sun set over the sea from the pool at Astra Apartments & Suites. Tired of restaurants? Cook up flavors of your own -- rooms have full kitchens, Astra-Apartments.com.

Paris, France

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Why Go: For Francophile romantics, there is no substitute for the City of Light. What to Do: Pick up baguettes, cheese and a bottle of wine fora twilight park picnic or head to a brasserie.Where to Stay: At the Hotel Bourg Tibourg, rooms have Moroccan flair and dim lamps that ooze as much romance as the city itself, BourgTibourg.com.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

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Knot Update: Due to recent events, please take caution before planning your honeymoon in this location.

Why Go: Northern Thailand feels authentic as can be, complete with rice paddies and tons of stunning temples.What to Do: Take a cooking lesson at the Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai's cooking school. You'll get an early morning market tour and then head to their demonstration pavilion to create your own Thai dishes. Where to Stay: The Chedi Chiang Mai is on the banks of the Mae Ping River and constructed around the old British Consulate building, GHMLuxuryHotels.com.

The Maldives

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Why Go: This enclave of resorts in the Indian Ocean is so quiet you'll feel like you've been shipwrecked on your own coral island.What to Do: Divers flock to this archipelago for the amazing eco-friendly excursions.Where to Stay: The One&Only Reethi Rah has over-water villas; some even haveprivate pools, OneandOnlyResorts.com.

Morocco

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Why Go: In this exotic land, bazaars are filled with the rich scent of spices and, in the main squares, you may even run into snake charmers and fortune-tellers. What to Do: Shop the Old Medina of Marrakech, as well as the boutiques on Fez's narrow, winding streets. Stock up on rugs, leather goods and spices.Where to Stay: Marrakech's historic La Mamounia hotel reopened last fall and has marble bathrooms, intricate light fixtures and carved doorways, Mamounia.com.

Tokyo, Japan

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Why Go: The skyscrapers are made of glass, the shopping and nightlife are wild, and the cuisine…well, you'll see! Don't leave without trying the insanely fresh sushi and, if you're brave, the (poisonous-if-prepared-wrong) Japanese puffer fish. What to Do: Check out a sumo wrestling match or a Japanese baseball game and you'll have stories to tell your friends (and future children) for years to come.Where to Stay: The Executive House Zen has views of a stunning Japanese garden in the middle of the bustling city, NewOtani.co.jp.

Bora Bora

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Why Go: Climb down the stairs of your over-water bungalow into the fish-filled lagoon -- your personal aquarium in French Polynesia.What to Do: Feeling brave? Snag some snorkeling gear and swim together with the stingrays. (Just be sure to ask the hotel staff if there's anything in the water you'd want to avoid on a particular day.)Where to Stay: The Hilton Bora Bora Nui Resort & Spa faces away from the island, so you won't spend your honeymoon with a less-than-scenic view of all of the other resorts that have sprung up recently, Hilton.com.

Fiji

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Why Go: Lovers come for the allure of the private islands, the fire dancers and the beautiful crafts made by the locals.What to Do: Take a guided jungle hike together (boots required), and learn all about native, medicinal plants.Where to Stay: Vatulele Island Resort has 19 villas, hidden among the vegetation for privacy. Ask about the honeymoon offerings when you book, Vatulele.com.

Rajasthan, India

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Why Go: India is a circus for the senses -- crowded sidewalks and interesting sites, including camels and elephants. What to Do: Set off for Ranthambhore National Park to see Bengal tigers, and get out of the urban jungle for a while. Where to Stay: The Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur is a former royal home, so there's marble floors and intricate mosaic just about everywhere, TajHotels.com.

Bali

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Why Go: Indonesia's resort-filled island draws spiritually minded travelers, who come to see all of the stunning temples and shrines open to the public. What to Do: Explore Balinese art at the Museum Le Mayeur and the Museum Rudana. Where to Stay: The COMO Shambhala Retreat fits right in here, with spa treatments using natural ingredients and ayurvedic rituals, COMOShambhala.como.bz.

Machu Picchu, Peru

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Why Go: Travel to Peru for the ruins and the remnants of the ancient Inca civilization. You'll be transfixed by the natural beauty.What to Do: If you want to climb the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, book a guide through a reputable tour operator well in advance.Where to Stay: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel is a 20-minute ride from the site, and rooms have alpaca blankets and colorful local art to make you feel as far from home as you actually are, Inkaterra.com.

Vietnam

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Why Go: With pho and bánh mì on everyone's lips these days, it's not surprising that Vietnam is seeing more Americans. What to Do: You don't come this far just to see Hanoi, so get out of the capital and travel to Ho Chi Minh City as well as the country's less-touristy central beaches.Where to Stay: At The Nam Hai, pull yourselves away from China Beach long enough for a spa treatment by the lotus pond, GHMLuxuryHotels.com.

Phuket, Thailand

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Why Go: Stunning boulder-studded shores and old fishing boats decorate the horizon.What to Do: Grab dinner at a concierge-recommended spot that's just for locals, and enjoy some spicy Thai flavor.Where to Stay: At Amanpuri resort, take teatime poolside, then come back to the pool at night for traditional Thai music, AmanResorts.com.

Anguilla

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Why Go: Arid Anguilla, with its white sand beaches and pale-blue waters, is a mecca for sun worshippers from all over the world.What to Do: Have lunch at CuisinArt Resort & Spa, and taste some of the region's best hothouse produce. Where to Stay: Cap Juluca's Moorish-style architecture will make your jaw drop, but the white-sand-and-blue-water vistas are pure Caribbean, CapJuluca.com.

Paradise Island

Why Go: This Bahamian isle is super-close to the US -- only a three-hour flight from New York City -- and has plenty of flights and hotels to fit a variety of budgets.What to Do: At The Cove Atlantis, play cards near the pool, then dance to the DJ's hot mix in the resort's club, Aura.Where to Stay: The One&Only Ocean Club has a fab beach, and lovely, colonial-style rooms with upscale décor that will make you feel like you've gone back in time together, OneandOnlyResorts.com.

Florida Keys

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Why Go: The Keys offer all the treats of the tropics -- right off the coast of Florida.What to Do: Sunsets are the main event here, so have a drink in hand when the sun starts to dip behind the horizon.Where to Stay: The Marquesa Hotel is great for couples who want to go out as much as they stay in, and a short walk from Key West's Duval Street bars, Marquesa.com.

Laguna Beach, California

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Why Go: Locals love the artsy roots of this SoCal town, and you'll love the golden sands.What to Do: Take a quick day trip to nearby picturesque Catalina Island and spend the day parasailing together.Where to Stay: Montage Laguna Beach has a cozy feel -- and a celeb following, MontageLagunaBeach.com.

Antigua

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Why Go: Sleepy Antigua is full of quaint harbor towns with cobblestone streets.What to Do: Rent a car, order a picnic lunch and ask your concierge for directions to a quiet beach for a day of vegging out.Where to Stay: Hermitage Bay has a super stylish (and sexy) atmosphere: Large day beds are surrounded with crisp, white curtains, and at night, the pool is lit by lanterns, HermitageBay.com.

Kauai, Hawaii

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Why Go: Mellow Kauai still has lots of old island charm, from wild roosters to streetside fruit stands by the beach.What to Do: Watch the pros catch some killer waves in Hanalei, a hamlet for beach hippies and serious surfers. Where to Stay: The St. Regis Princeville Resort will impress you with its luxe spa and polished room décor, StarwoodHotels.com.

Riviera Maya, Mexico

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Why Go: This Caribbean coast seems to have a new resort opening weekly, so there are plenty of chic choices.What to Do: Book a temazcal treatment, and you and your spouse can sweat it out together in a Mayan steam lodge. Where to Stay: The Zöetry Paraiso de la Bonita Riviera Maya resort is spread out along a very wide stretch of sand -- and offers everything you could want to unwind from a top-notch spa to yoga, ocean kayaking and even painting classes, ZoetryResorts.com.

Costa Alegre, Mexico

Why Go: This remote Pacific coast stretches south from Puerta Vallarta. For those looking for more remote beaches, it's well worth the drive.What to Do: Walk on the dark sand at Cuastecomate, a quiet cove great for snorkeling.Where to Stay: El Tamarindo Resort is a luxe option for couples that want to experience the jungle without roughing it (the spa and golf course help, too), MexicoBoutiqueHotels.com.

Turks and Caicos

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Why Go: These islands are less than a two-hour flight from Miami, so you'll be there pronto.What to Do: There isn't much here but beach and water -- and that's the point.Where to Stay: Parrot Cay is on a private isle, a short boat ride from the airport. Splurge on a villa, and your back door will open to the sand. You'll also have your own living room, plus a bathroom that looks out onto a small, private garden, ParrotCay.como.bz.

Oaxaca, Mexico

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Why Go: Far from the tourist-filled beaches, Oaxaca offers an authentic look at Mexican life (and has some beautiful beaches).What to Do: Take a day trip to the arts and crafts towns that surround the main city and snag authentic rugs, pottery and artwork for your new nest back home. Where to Stay: Casa Oaxaca Hotel & Restaurant is a seven-room boutique filled with regional art so you really feel like you're in Oaxaca, CasaOaxaca.com.mx.

The British Virgin Islands

Why Go: These Caribbean islands are a water-sports playground. It's also a hot spot for sailors looking to catch some wind.What to Do: When the sun sets, hop in a boat and head to Foxy's bar on Jost Van Dyke to get down with the yachties and sailors.Where to Stay: Biras Creek Resort in Virgin Gorda is a luxe hotel with a scenic, relaxed atmosphere -- and plenty of boat access to boot, BirasCreek.com.

Big Island, Hawaii

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Why Go: From mountains to valleys and beaches topped with sand in a variety of colors, Big Island is Hawaii for couples who want more than a palm tree and a mai tai. What to Do: The largest Hawaiian island is home to an active volcano that, for most all visitors, is an undeniable draw.Where to Stay: The grounds at the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka'upulehu are lit by tiki torches at night, and it feels magical (not to mention super-romantic), FourSeasons.com.

St. Moritz, Switzerland

Why Go: It has great skiing and its après scene is hot. Expect a fun European crowd.What to Do: Ski during the day; then plan for cocktails and a sleigh ride at night.Where to Stay: Badrutt's Palace, a grand, old-school chalet still requires a jacket at most restaurants, BadruttsPalace.com.

Great Barrier Reef, Australia

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Why Go: For divers, the Great Barrier Reef is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. How big is it? Well, let's just say that it's visible from the moon (or, if you want to be technical about it, about 133,000 square miles).What to Do: Sign up for a humpback whale-watching trip off Fraser Island from August to October. Not going during whale season? Go on a jet ski tour with Eco Jet Safarir Airlie Beach and check out dolphins and other creatures on snorkeling "breaks."Where to Stay: Daintree EcoLodge & Spa is made up of 15 luxe tree houses -- and, trust us, these were made for grown-ups. Indulge in the resort's natural spa, where Aboriginal-inspired massages will leave you totally relaxed, Daintree-EcoLodge.com.au.

New Zealand

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Why Go: New Zealand has something for everyone: Parts of the country's two main islands have very diverse climates, so you can ski in the south and then ride the waves at beaches in the north on the same trip.What to Do: Try bungee jumping in its birthplace, Queenstown. For a more scenic adventure, hike the Milford Track (see our Real Honeymooners who completed the five-day excursion on page TK).Where to Stay: Blanket Bay, just a quick 45-minute drive north of Queenstown, has tons of outdoor activities, including golf, fly-fishing and horseback riding. Check out special packages online for people traveling from the US, BlanketBay.co.nz.

Big Sur, California

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Why Go: This northern coastal town is rugged and woodsy -- and is close to other popular spots, like Carmel-by-the-Sea and Monterey (it's also a three-hour drive from San Fran). What to Do: Drive about 30 minutes to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, where you can spot sea lions, otters, seals and (from December to April) Pacific gray whales making their way south. Don't forget to bring your cameras!Where to Stay: Post Ranch Inn is a dream for a nature girl (and guy). Wake for yoga on the beach, go for a hike and end your day stargazing, PostRanchInn.com.

South Africa

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Why Go: Lions and tigers and bears -- oh my! Okay, so you won't see any bears. But lovers of big game, and of photography, rank safaris high on their to-do lists.What to Do: Guides at game reserves take guests out at sunrise to see the animals before they seek shade and are harder to spot. Where to Stay: The Phinda Private Game Reserve offers plenty of opportunities to see the Big Five -- lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards and rhinos -- in their natural habitats, AndBeyond.com.

Alaska

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Why Go: A cruise through Alaska is a window into some of the country's most majestic scenery. Watch otters and whales splash and see a glacier shed snow into the water.What to Do: A river kayak expedition is a great way to explore the area.Where to Stay: Book a cruise on a large ship, like those owned by Celebrity Cruises. You can also arrange with to sightsee from a helicopter and try dog sledding for an extra fee, CelebrityCruises.com.

Costa Rica

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Why Go: This Central American country has long been known for eco-adventure. Wilderness lodges abound, and jungle treks offer close contact with wild monkeys and sloths.What to Do: Get into the spirit of outdoor adventure here, whether that's hiking, white-water rafting or riding a zip-line. (Trust us: You'll scream your lungs out -- in a good way!)Where to Stay: Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo offers a sense of luxury in the jungle, plus two beaches and a championship golf course, FourSeasons.com.

Treasure Beach, Jamaica

Knot Update: Due to recent events, please take caution before planning your honeymoon in this location.

Why Go: The reggae, the Rasta culture, the totally chill vibe (and the sexy beaches).What to Do: Don't leave without trying the local fare, from beef patties and jerk chicken to fresh lobster and octopus. After dinner, get your dance on at live reggae clubs.Where to Stay: Jake's may not be situated on the island's best beaches, but the hip, young atmosphere and cool clientele more than make up for it, IslandOutpost.com.

Tulum, Mexico

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Why Go: Tulum's private, laid-back feel will surprise you, given its close proximity to wild-and-crazy Cancun. What to Do: Check out the ruins of Tulum, which sit high on a cliff that has incredible views of the Caribbean.Where to Stay: The restaurant at Zamas draws a fun crowd at night, when you can sip piña coladas and listen to the waves crashing just a few feet away, Zamas.com.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Why Go: This is the Paris of the South. You'll love the shopping, the wine and the dining -- especially the delicious steak. What to Do: Watch local dancers tango; we bet you'll sign up before you've unpacked.Where to Stay: Stay at the storied Alvear Palace Hotel, where rooms have elegant details like chandeliers, AlvearPalace.com.

Miami, Florida

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Why Go: The beaches are a big draw, but Miami also has a ton of spicy Latin flair.What to Do: Watch the in-line skaters and admire the drag queens in South Beach.Where to Stay: The sleek Townhouse Hotel has a cool, trendy feel and a popular sushi bar, TownhouseHotel.com.

Oahu, Hawaii

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Why Go: Hawaii's most populated island is bustling with great shopping, inexpensive restaurants and a slew of hotels.What to Do: Take a surfing lesson -- all those yoga classes you took to slim down for the wedding will help you balance.Where to Stay: The boutique-size Hotel Renew serves up Waikiki Beach style without the big-resort bill, HotelRenew.com.

Montreal

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Why Go: The "Paris of the North" is closer and less expensive -- but you can still dine on delicious French fare.What to Do: Eat at Au Pied de Cochon, an only-in-Québec ode to regional cuisine that serves up amazing takes on local dishes. Where to Stay: The Hôtel XIXe Siècle in Old Montreal is conveniently located and at a fair price -- regardless of what the US dollar happens to be doing, HotelXIXSiecle.com.

Bangkok, Thailand

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Knot Update: Due to recent events, please take caution before planning your honeymoon in this location.

Why Go: Okay, the plane ticket is no bargain (flights from New York and Los Angeles can go for around $1,500). But once you get there, you can eat, shop and explore on the cheap -- $30 will buy you a three-course feast at an off-the-tourist-path restaurant. What to Do: Go to the Grand Palace and marvel at the murals and gilded statues.Where to Stay: The Eugenia's charming colonial architecture is the antidote to the city's many high rises, TheEugenia.com.

Savannah, Georgia

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Why Go: If you love Gone With the Wind (and even if you don't), you'll find the Southern hospitality intoxicating and totally relaxing. What to Do: Wander through the many antique boutiques -- just don't spend all the money you saved on airfare! Savannah's also known for its art galleries.Where to Stay: The Mansion on Forsyth Park has loads of Victorian style on the outside, and Southern charm on the inside, MansiononForsythPark.com.

Bocas del Toro, Panama

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Why Go: Panama may be best known for its canal, but it also has beautiful rain forests, beaches and eco-lodges.What to Do: Check out Starfish Beach and Dolphin Bay and hang out with their well-known inhabitants.Where to Stay: For over-water bungalows without the flight to Tahiti, consider Punta Caracol, an eco-resort with a string of nine thatched cabins, PuntaCaracol.com.